Cream cheese won tons are a perfect appetizer or snack for any Asian-inspired meal — and honestly, they’re fantastic on their own. These bite-sized, cheesy treats are simple to make in just four steps: mix the filling, assemble the won tons, fry them, and enjoy.
You only need a few basic ingredients, an egg wash, and some frying oil. A deep fryer or a heavy skillet will work fine.
Garlic powder, sugar, cream cheese, green onions (or onion powder) and won ton wrappers are all you need for the filling.
First, combine the cream cheese, minced green onions (or onion powder), garlic powder, and sugar. Use a stand mixer or mix by hand until the filling is light and creamy.
Prepare your won ton wrappers and make an egg wash (one egg whisked with about a tablespoon of water). The egg wash acts as glue to seal the wrappers so the filling doesn’t leak while frying.
Place a single won ton wrapper on parchment or a clean surface. Put about a teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture in the center of the wrapper.
Brush or dab a light layer of egg wash around the edges of the wrapper. This step is important to seal the wrapper and prevent the filling from leaking into the oil. You can use your finger or a small pastry brush to apply the egg wash.
There are several ways to fold and seal won tons. Choose the shape you prefer — they all taste the same.
Option 1: Fold opposite corners together to form a rectangle, then fold the remaining corners into the middle. Press firmly to remove air and seal tightly.
Option 2: Fold two opposite corners together and seal the sides to form a triangle. This is a quick and easy fold.
Option 3 (family favorite): Start with the triangle fold, then fold the two side corners inward to create an envelope shape. Add a dab of egg wash where edges meet to ensure a secure seal.
Whichever folding method you use, make sure each won ton is sealed well so the filling stays inside while frying.
Heat canola oil (or your preferred frying oil) to 375°F (190°C). Depending on the size of your pan or fryer, fry 4–5 won tons at a time — avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes per side, turning once to brown both sides evenly. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Keep finished won tons warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven while you fry the rest.
Serve the warm, crispy won tons with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet and sour or a simple soy-based dip.
If you want a main dish to accompany these, a simple stir-fry over steamed rice pairs wonderfully.
Cream Cheese Won Tons
8 oz. cream cheese, softened
2 green onions, minced (or 1 tsp onion powder)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tbsp sugar
Won ton wrappers (makes about 18–20 won tons)
Egg wash: 1 egg + 1 tbsp water, whisked
Canola oil for frying
Combine the cream cheese, green onions, garlic powder, and sugar until smooth. Place about a teaspoon of filling on each won ton wrapper, seal with egg wash, and fry in 375°F oil until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
**Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.**